Following impairment producing brain damage, recovery of normal function (e.g., of motor control, vision, memory, etc.) is rare, but can occur in
the adult central nervous system, and usually occurs spontaneously
through mechanisms that are not yet understood. A clear understanding
of the mechanisms responsible for recovery of function will enable a
rational approach to reconstruction of normal intact circuitry and function
in the damaged adult brain. There are at least two general strategies for
uncovering these mechanisms. One requires an understanding of the
mechanism behind the recovery that can occur spontaneously, and the
other explores the mechanisms of growth and functional organization
during development, with the idea that knowledge of how the brain
achieved appropriate functional organization initially will assist in efforts
to reestablish the damaged circuits in the adult. Although much progress
has been made through each approach, neither can be successful without
integration of both approaches. It is this ability to integrate knowledge
from development and adult plasticity that Bob Isaacson has achieved in
his own work and fostered in his students and colleagues. It has added
much to his success.

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